• Episode 62: Eezan Shahul Hameed, Chief Commercial Officer, Maldives Fund Management Corporation
    Jul 30 2024

    Jonathan Worsley, Chairman and CEO of The Bench, interviews Eezan Shahul Hameed, Chief Commercial Officer of Maldives Fund Management Corporation.

    They discuss the evolution of the Maldives Fund Management Corporation, its role in attracting foreign direct investment, and key tourism projects like the Han Kede integrated tourism zone and Gafaru lagoon development. Eezan highlights the importance of sustainability, community involvement, and innovative tourism models in driving the Maldives' tourism sector forward.

    #FutureHospitalitySummit #FHSWorld #FHSPodcast #MFMC

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    24 mins
  • Episode 61: Natalia Bayona, Executive Director, UN Tourism
    Jul 26 2024

    In this episode of the FHS Podcast, Jonathan Worsley, Chairman and CEO of The Bench, interviews Natalia Bayona, Executive Director of UN Tourism.

    They discuss the vital role of innovation and technology in transforming tourism, the importance of education for youth in the sector, and the challenges of over-tourism. Natalia shares insights on supporting SMEs through digitalisation, fostering sustainable tourism, and the impact of UN Tourism's startup competitions in driving growth and social impact.

    #FutureHospitalitySummit #FHSPodcast #FHSWorld #UNTourism

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    20 mins
  • Episode 58: Guy Hutchinson, CEO of Hilton Middle East and Africa
    Jul 22 2024

    In this episode of the FHS Podcast, host Jonathan Worsley sits down with Guy Hutchinson, CEO of Hilton Middle East and Africa, at the Mandarin Oriental Al Faisaliah Hotel in Riyadh. They discuss Hilton's significant expansion in Saudi Arabia, including a new deal introducing 1,600 keys across three brands in Medina. Hutchinson shares insights on aligning with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, the diverse range of hospitality projects underway, and the strategies for fostering a young workforce and enhancing gender diversity within the region. They also delve into the potential of branded residences and Saudi Arabia's unique position to redefine tourism with its ambitious development plans.

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    7 mins
  • Episode 60: Ashish Tulsian, Co-founder & CEO, Restroworks
    Jul 22 2024

    In this episode of the FHS podcast, Jennifer Pettinger-Haines, Advisor, The Bench, interviews Ashish Tulsian, Co-founder and CEO of Restroworks.

    Ashish shares his journey from running a telecom company to founding a restaurant and developing Restroworks, a leading cloud-based technology platform for restaurants. They discuss the challenges in the restaurant industry, the importance of innovative solutions, and the impact of digital transformation. Ashish also provides valuable advice for aspiring restaurateurs and insights into global market trends.

    #FutureHospitalitySummit #FHSPodcast #Restroworks

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    13 mins
  • Episode 59: Heidi Grimwood, Vice President, ELE|NA Spa & Wellness
    Jul 8 2024

    Join us on the 59th episode of the Future Hospitality Summit podcast as Jay Green sits down with Heidi Grimwood, VP of ELE|NA Spa, to explore her inspiring journey in wellness.

    From her early days as a fitness instructor to leading spa innovations at Atmosphere Wellness, Heidi shares insights on holistic health, the importance of personalised wellness programs, and the evolving trends in the industry.

    Tune in to learn how Elena Spa integrates nature's elements into their offerings and the future of wellness in hospitality.

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    25 mins
  • Episode 57: Nicolas Nasra, Head of Hotel Advisory, Hospitality & Tourism MENA Region, Colliers
    May 8 2024

    Join us on the latest FHS Podcast where Matthew Weihs, Commercial Director at The Bench, speaks with Nicolas Nasra, Head of Hotel Advisory, Hospitality & Tourism at Colliers, about the evolving landscape of branded residences in Saudi Arabia. Learn how collaborations with luxury and lifestyle brands are reshaping real estate, attracting younger demographics, and delivering strong returns on investment in alignment with Vision 2030.

    Tune in to the full podcast for an insightful discussion.

    #FutureHospitalitySummit #FHSSaudiArabia #FHSPodcast

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    22 mins
  • Episode 56: Duncan O’Rourke, CEO Middle East, Africa & Asia Pacific, Accor
    Apr 30 2024

    Join Jonathan Worsley and Duncan O'Rourke on this enlightening FHS podcast episode as they explore Duncan's dynamic role as CEO of Middle East, Africa & Asia Pacific for Accor.

    They discuss strategic alignments with regional visions like Saudi Vision 2030, Accor's expansion plans including 45 new hotels in Saudi Arabia, and the crucial role of sustainability and AI in enhancing operational efficiency and guest experiences. Discover how Accor is innovating hospitality by adapting to local cultures and fostering local talent, positioning itself as a leader in responsible hospitality and transformative travel experiences.

    #FutureHospitalitySummit #FHSSaudiArabia #FHSPodcast

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    17 mins
  • Episode 55: Gautam Sashittal, CEO, King Abdullah Financial District Development & Management Company (KAFD DMC)
    Apr 28 2024

    Join Jonathan Worsley and Gautam Sashittal on the FHS Podcast as they explore the dynamic evolution of the King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD). They discuss KAFD's transformation into a comprehensive mixed-use hub in Riyadh, emphasising its development of residential, retail, and hospitality sectors. Gautam highlights the integration of smart city technologies and sustainability initiatives that align with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, enhancing KAFD's role as a prime destination for business and lifestyle. Tune in to discover how KAFD is setting new standards in urban development and sustainability in the heart of Saudi Arabia.

    #FutureHospitalitySummit #FHSSaudiArabia #FHSPodcast

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    22 mins